In an effort to actively promote Nigeria for profitable tourism marketing through its abundant natural and creative human potential, the Director-General of the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC), Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, has established eight strategic committees.
These committees aim to explore areas of comparative advantage, forming a robust working paper for sustainable tourism in Nigeria.
The committees are distributed across the six geopolitical zones, emphasizing a tourism-driven economy with a clear focus on skill acquisition, the concept of “One State, One Unique Product,” and Cultural Exchange/Training.
Other areas of focus include the establishment of Cultural States, funding for the Arts and Culture Sector, synergy between Culture and Tourism, E-Marketing, and a review of the 35 editions of NAFEST.
Delegates from the six geopolitical zones (North-East, North-West, North-Central, South-South, South-East, South-West) were subdivided into cells, each headed by a state chairperson.
Speaking at the forum held at Chida International Hotel, Abuja, during the maiden edition of the National Stakeholders Review Conference on NAFEST, Otunba Runsewe, the Director-General of NCAC, declared a state of emergency on the development of cultural tourism and the entire value chain industry. He stated, “It is time to be honest with ourselves on how we can elevate tourism to the next level.”
According to Runsewe, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has embarked on far-reaching policy reforms to revive the economy and reposition the nation on the path of sustainable growth and development.
Runsewe acknowledged that these decisions might bring temporary hardships but believes they will ultimately lead to greater gains and prosperity for the people and the nation.
He emphasised the need for patience, perseverance, commitment, and teamwork, urging collective efforts in rebuilding the nation and harnessing its vast human and material resources for national development.
Runsewe drew parallels with other nations that successfully navigated challenges, such as the United States and China, citing their commitment to a shared vision and cultural identity.
He urged Nigerians to cultivate a sense of patriotism and embrace their cultural heritage to drive the country’s economic and social development.
The Director-General highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s cultural diversity, describing it as a valuable resource that, if properly harnessed, could significantly contribute to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He stressed the importance of integrating cultural products into the economic development process, positioning Nigeria as a culturally rich and economically vibrant nation.
In conclusion, Runsewe stated that the NCAC, under his leadership, is actively pursuing cultural programs to open up the industry, tapping into latent skills, talents, and capacities.
The National Stakeholders’ Review Conference on the 35-year history of NAFEST provides an opportunity for stakeholders in the Culture and Arts sector to collectively strategize and align with the agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for renewed hope and sustainable economic growth.
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